Heywood pantry marks one-year milestone 

Heywood pantry

The Heywood food pantry, dedicated to supporting local residents, has proudly reached its one-year milestone.

To celebrate, members enjoyed a special treat: their weekly bag of groceries was free, and they received a complimentary cupcake and a slice of birthday cake, lovingly baked by one of the pantry's volunteers.

For £4 a week, members receive a pre packed bag filled with quality, nutritious food, including bread, eggs, milk, fresh fruit, and vegetables.

Over the past 12 months, the pantry has distributed an impressive 1,004 bags to its 76 active members.

Situated at the Back o’ th’ Moss Community Centre, the pantry is supported by funding from RBH and is operated by a dedicated team of volunteers, along with one paid staff member. This community effort ensures that those in need receive the extra help they require to manage their food expenses.

The pantry's first anniversary not only marks a year of providing essential support but also highlights the community spirit and dedication of its volunteers and supporters.

It was formed following consultation with residents who told the RBH team they were struggling to afford good food with some having to choose between buying food or paying for gas and electricity.

The Heywood pantry is one of four pantries that receive funding from RBH, with other locations at Smallbridge, Kirkholt, and Freehold.

Jane Catz, Heywood Food Pantry staff member, said: “This year has flown by and has been a learning curve.

"During that year we have recruited two volunteers, and without them the pantry would not have become the success it is today.

"We are very pleased as we have recently exceeded our 100th pantry member and look forward to the next twelve months providing affordable quality food to the Heywood community.”

The pantry is open once a week on a Thursday from 10am until 12pm and is available to all Heywood residents, who just need to fill in a short form to become a member.

The form can be filled out here: RBH Pantry Form